Historical events that happened on 23 June from the invention of the typewriter to the tumultuous Brexit vote.
- 1868 – The Birth of the Typewriter
First stop: the 19th century, where Christopher Latham Sholes, an American newspaper editor and politician, was tinkering away in his workshop. Imagine a world without keyboards and computers—seems impossible, right? Well, back then, Sholes was about to change the way we communicate forever. On June 21, 1868, he received a patent for his “Type-Writer,” an invention that would revolutionise writing. This contraption wasn't just the first practical typewriter but also introduced the QWERTY keyboard layout, designed to prevent typebar jams by spacing out commonly used letter pairs. The QWERTY keyboard became the gold standard, and Sholes’ invention paved the way for modern typing.
- 1894 – The Birth of the Modern Olympics
Fast forward to 1894. Picture the Sorbonne in Paris, where Baron Pierre de Coubertin was busy rallying support for his grand idea: reviving the Olympic Games. On June 21st, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded, setting the stage for the first modern Olympics in Athens in 1896. Coubertin envisioned the games as a way to promote peace and international camaraderie through sports. The revival of the Olympics has since brought nations together, showcasing human excellence and fostering global unity.
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| Olympic torch |
- 1960 – The Pill and a Revolution
Now, let's leap into the swinging sixties. The year is 1960, and a quiet revolution is about to unfold. On June 21st, the FDA announced it would approve Enovid, the first oral contraceptive pill, for use as a contraceptive. This tiny pill packed a powerful punch, giving women unprecedented control over their reproductive lives. The approval of the pill was a watershed moment in women's rights, health, and autonomy. It sparked debates, changed societal norms, and played a pivotal role in the sexual revolution. The pill’s impact on society has been profound, influencing everything from family planning to women's participation in the workforce.
- 1961 – Peace and Science in Antarctica
Next stop: the icy expanses of Antarctica. On June 23, 1961, the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959, officially came into force. This remarkable treaty was a beacon of international cooperation, designating Antarctica as a scientific preserve and banning military activity on the continent. At a time when the Cold War was at its height, the treaty was a testament to what humanity could achieve when we set aside our differences for the greater good. Scientists from around the world continue to work together in Antarctica, conducting research that benefits all of humanity.
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| Peaceful Antartica |
- 1985 – Tragedy in the Skies
We now arrive at a darker chapter in history. On June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182, a Boeing 747, was en route from Montreal to London when a bomb exploded on board, causing the plane to crash off the coast of Ireland. All 329 passengers and crew were killed in this horrific act of terrorism, which was later attributed to Sikh extremists. This devastating event remains one of the deadliest aviation disasters in history and a sombre reminder of the perils of terrorism. It prompted significant changes in aviation security and counter-terrorism measures worldwide.
- 2016 – A Political Earthquake
Our final destination is the recent past, June 23, 2016. The United Kingdom held a referendum that would determine its future in the European Union. The result? A narrow majority of 51.9% voted to leave the EU, a decision now known as Brexit. This referendum sent shockwaves across Europe and the world, triggering intense political and economic debates. Brexit has reshaped the UK’s relationship with its neighbours and has had profound implications for trade, immigration, and national identity. It’s a saga that continues to unfold, highlighting the complexities and consequences of such a monumental decision.